asked the Minister for Trade, Commerce and Tourism if he is aware of the trading difficulties being experienced on the home market by a company (details supplied); if he will take steps to limit imports of copper tubing from Spain to zero; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Copper Tubing Imports.
574.
I am so aware. In accordance with the terms of the European Economic Communities/Spain Agreement and Council Regulation No. 1525/70 the problem of imports of copper tubing from Spain was taken up with the EEC Commission, and they have authorised this country to adopt safeguard measures in respect of those imports. On 24 May 1983 the Government made an order under which the importation of the copper tubes from Spain is subject to licences issued by me. It is my intention, in consultation with the Minister for Industry and Energy, to exercise the power contained in this order to keep imports of the copper tubes in question within acceptable limits taking into account the interests of Irish industry and the requirements of the market.